Celebrating 125 Years
American University Washington College of Law A Legacy of Transformative Education BY KEITH PIERCE
Approximately 125 years ago, in the bustling heart of Washington, DC, a pioneering spirit ignited the creation of the Washington College of Law, which became a part of American University in 1949. Founded by remarkable women against the backdrop of an era when legal education was largely inaccessible to women, American University Washington College of Law (AUWCL) stands as a testament to resilience, innovation, and a commitment to shaping legal minds for the future. As we celebrate this historic milestone, we embark on a journey through the transformative evolution of AUWCL, from its inspiring beginnings to its current status as a trailblazer in legal education.
Delia Sheldon Jackson approaches Ellen Spencer Mussey seeking an apprenticeship in the study of law, marking the beginning of WCL's transformative journey.
TIMELINE MILESTONES 1895 1896
The inaugural session of the "Women's Law Class" is held by Mussey and Gillett.
1897 1898
The Washington College of Law (WCL) is officially incorporated by the District of Columbia, becoming the first law school in the world founded by women.
WCL’s commitment to co-education and diversity was evident as male enrollment began, showcasing the institution’s dedication to breaking barriers.
Founding Visionaries: A Revolutionary Beginning
The story of AUWCL is intertwined with the visionary spirits of Ellen Spencer Mussey and Emma Gillett. These trailblazing women, civil rights advocates, and international lawyers defied the societal norms of their time. In 1896, Mussey and Gillett established the “Women’s Law Class” in Washington, DC, marking the foundation of what would become the Washington College of Law.
A Bold Vision Takes Shape In 1895, with limited opportunities for women in the legal profession, Mussey and Gillett saw the need for accessible legal education. Mussey’s denial of admission to other law schools due to her gender fueled their resolve. In February 1896, they launched the “Women’s Law Class,” enrolling Jackson, Nanette Paul, and Helen Malcolm. Initially held in Mussey’s law offices, Mussey taught Constitutional Law, Contracts, and Personal Property, while Gillett covered Bills and Notes, and Domestic Relations. The demand grew rapidly, leading them to enlist prominent Washington attorneys to expand the curriculum.
The Birth of a Trailblazing Institution WCL was the first law school to have a woman dean, and the first to graduate an all-female law school class. In 1896, recognizing the dearth of opportunities for women in legal education, Their steadfast commitment to empowering women through legal education laid the cornerstone for future generations of legal scholars and practitioners. By 1898, the program had flourished, with six women poised to enter their senior year of study. In a groundbreaking move, Mussey and Gillett sought acceptance for these students at the law school of Columbian College, part of what is now George Washington University. However, their request was met with rejection, citing antiquated beliefs about women’s capabilities in the legal field.
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